Choose the right editor with a sample edit
When you’re searching for a book editor, a sample edit can help you find the right fit. Each editor will approach your manuscript a little differently. After all, we’re humans who bring our professional training and unique life experiences to each book we edit.
The best book editor for you complements your strengths. Let’s say you’re an expert at writing engaging dialogue, but you want to improve your fantasy world-building. You’ll want to seek out someone with a deep understanding of creating a rich world. Or perhaps you’re a pro at writing lyrical prose but don’t feel confident with big-picture plot points. You’ll want a book editor who can identify when your storyline has veered off track or is missing the mark.
A sample edit can show you if an editor complements you as a writer. Some book editors offer sample edits; others don’t. Some editors do them for free; others charge a small fee.
Me? I’m a firm believer in the free sample edit. I think it’s only fair that we both see each other’s work before we agree to work together. No blind dates here. It also helps us get on the same page and align expectations at the start—an essential first step in any successful agreement.
What is a sample edit?
In a sample edit, an editor works on a small section of your manuscript. It could be anywhere from a page to a chapter or two. They then provide feedback.
For a copyeditor or proofreader, this might mean in-text mark-ups. The sample edit will likely focus on elements like grammar, punctuation, and clarity. For a developmental editor (that’s me!), the sample edit may provide commentary on initial reactions or themes. Instead of grammar or punctuation, a developmental editor focuses on characterization, tension, and other storytelling elements.
Here’s a look at some of the comments I’ve made in sample developmental edits:
Prepare for a sample edit
Be prepared to provide a draft of your manuscript. If you have the entire book written, I recommend sharing the entire file. Some editors prefer to provide a sample edit of the beginning of the book, while others will pull from the middle. Your editor can tell you the length of the sample edit. They might cover a certain number of words, scenes, or chapters, depending on your manuscript.
Discuss what file format the editor needs—MS Word, Google Docs, or something else? Some editors use certain tools that work within a specific program like MS Word. Others can work across different file types. The goal is to agree on a compatible, workable format you can both use. Then, deliver your manuscript to the editor.
You should also discuss a deadline for the sample edit. When will the editor complete it? Their follow-through can show you how well they work with deadlines.
How to evaluate a sample edit
Once you’ve received your sample edit, ask yourself the following questions to evaluate their work:
Strengths: Does the editor have a strong command of the elements I need help with? Do they address key areas I was hoping they would?
Feedback style: Does the editor’s commentary style give me what I need? Is it insightful and encouraging? Or does it provide the tough love that inspires me?
Value: Do the edits significantly improve my text? Is there actionable feedback to help me revise?
Go beyond a sample edit
A sample edit gives you a feel for an editor’s strengths and style. But what if you want more? Here are some other ways to find an editor who is a good fit for you:
Discovery call: Ask if your editor is open to a quick video or phone call. Talking one-on-one (rather than just through email) can help you connect with someone more quickly. If you reach out to me, chances are we’ll have a discovery call before a sample edit.
Testimonials: See what other authors say about this editor. Many editors list testimonials on their website or can offer references from past clients.
Request a free sample edit
Finding the right editor can take your manuscript to the next level. Ready for a free sample edit of your fiction book? Let’s do it! We can start with a discovery call so you can tell me about your book, and I can understand your goals. Then, I’ll provide a free sample edit so you can see my developmental editing feedback style. Send me a message to start a conversation.
